10 greatest BBC period dramas based on bestselling novels ranked - no.1 is a masterpiece

When it comes to period dramas, viewers can't get enough of them. From their eye-catching period costumes to murder, scandal and forbidden love, the stakes are often high as intrigue unfolds, leaving fans of the genre on the edge of their seats. The BBC are known for providing some of the best adaptations on television written by some of the world's most beloved authors.

From classic literature written by the likes of Charlotte Brontë to lesser-known works by Anthony Trollope, Express.co.uk are counting down the best BBC period dramas based on the best-selling novels of all time that have captivated audiences, from the tension to slow-burn storytelling that defined the original books.

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Author: Charles Dicken's novel, Oliver Twist, is considered a bestseller following its release between 1837 and 1839. It remains a widely read and sold classic today.

Rating: BBC viewers have continued to praise the miniseries which has received a solid 7.3 out of 10 on IMDB. One admirable fan gushed: "A wonderful and very modern retelling of a classic story. Quirky and charming in equal measures, this particular take on Oliver Twist is a worthy watch indeed, and even riveting at times."

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Author: Jane Austen's 1813 novel is considered her most popular and continues to be a global bestseller, selling over 20 million copies.

Rating: The BBC's 1995 adaptation has received an impressive score of 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, as one fan gushed: "By far the definitive version imo being a series it allows a depth in the characters that a film cannot match because of time constraints. Its brilliantly cast bringing Austen's characters to life perfectly."(sic)

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